TAMPIN – Police have detained a man in connection with the suspected abuse and subsequent death of his 4-year-old stepdaughter on February 1.
Tampin district police chief Anuwal Ab Wahab said the 30-year-old was arrested about 10pm on Tuesday in front of the police station while he was waiting for his wife and 9-year-old stepson, who were called in to give their statements.
He told Bernama yesterday that the suspect, who works as a cement truck driver, was arrested after the boy told officers that the victim was often beaten by their stepfather.
“In the evening of the day the incident occurred, the victim’s brother heard sounds of beating, and cries coming from his stepfather’s bedroom.
“At dawn, the victim was found unconscious, and was taken to a clinic.
“She was pronounced dead at the clinic, despite being given respiratory support.”
He said police earlier received a doctor’s report from the clinic on the girl’s death.
“Results of a post-mortem conducted at Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital showed that the victim suffered serious injuries to the head, bruises on the wrists and legs, and bite marks on the body. Three left ribs were also broken.
“Dental specialists from Kuala Lumpur Hospital confirmed that there were adult bite marks on the victim’s right hand, shoulder and wrist, and the forensics department confirmed that the head injury was caused by a blunt object.”
He said the suspect tested positive for methamphetamine and has records for theft.
The man has been remanded until Tuesday, and the case is being investigated under Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001. – Bernama, February 13, 2021
